Boater Safety & Education
Essential Items for a Safe Boating Experience
​Whether you're a local or a visitor, ensuring you have the right equipment on your boat is key to enjoying a safe and hassle-free day on Lake Havasu and the Colorado River. At the Lake Havasu Marine Association, we encourage all boaters to be well-prepared with essential safety gear to protect themselves, their passengers, and the beautiful waterways we all love.
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We would like to give a special Thanks to Scott Brown (a dedicated LHMA Volunteer) and daughter Nikki Brown for their contributions to this information.
​1. Throwable Device (Type IV Personal Flotation Device)​
In an emergency, a throwable flotation device can save lives. Every boat must have at least one Coast Guard-approved throwable device, such as a ring buoy or cushion, easily accessible. These devices are designed to assist someone in the water who is not wearing a life jacket.​
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Pro Tip: Keep your throwable device within easy reach, not stashed in a compartment.
2. Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
Life jackets aren’t just a suggestion—they’re the law. Each person on board your boat must have a properly fitting, Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device. Children under a certain age (check state regulations) must wear life jackets at all times while on board.
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Remember: PFDs should be accessible, properly maintained, and fit each passenger appropriately.​
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3. Working Running Lights​
If you're boating during low-light conditions (dawn, dusk, or night), working navigation lights are essential for visibility. Ensure your bow and stern lights are in working order and that your anchor light is ready if you plan to stay moored after dark.​
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Tip: Regularly check that all bulbs are functional and the lenses are clean.
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4. Bilge Pump and Bailing Scoop​
A functional bilge pump helps remove excess water from your boat, but having a manual bailing scoop onboard is a great backup plan. Make sure your bilge pump is in working order before heading out on the water.​
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Safety Tip: Routinely check for leaks and ensure your bilge pump is clean and operational.
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5. First Aid Kit​
Accidents happen, so having a well-stocked first aid kit is essential. Make sure your kit includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary personal medications. A properly equipped first aid kit can make all the difference in an emergency.​
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Pro Tip: Review and restock your first aid kit before each boating trip.​
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6. Anchors with 100 Feet of Rope​
Having an anchor onboard is crucial, not only for docking but also for safety in case your engine fails or in inclement weather. A sturdy anchor paired with at least 100 feet of rope ensures that you can secure your boat in various water depths.​
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Advice: Choose an anchor suited to your boat's size and the types of conditions you'll encounter.
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7. Drinking Water
Staying hydrated is a must, especially during the hot Arizona summers on Lake Havasu. Always pack enough drinking water for everyone aboard, as dehydration can set in quickly during long days in the sun.
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Reminder: Have extra water for emergencies or extended trips.
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8. B-1 Fire Extinguisher
Fire safety is just as important on the water as it is on land. All boats should have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved B-1 fire extinguisher onboard and easily accessible. Regularly check that your extinguisher is charged and in good working condition.
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Tip: Place the extinguisher in a spot that all passengers are familiar with.
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9. Communication Devices (Cell Phone or Marine Radio)
Staying connected on the water is essential for emergencies. While cell phones are a great tool, consider investing in a VHF marine radio for reliable communication, especially in remote areas. Ensure your phone or radio is fully charged before setting out.
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Suggestion: Store phones and radios in waterproof bags to protect them from water damage.
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10. Functioning Horn or Whistle
Boats are required to have a sound-producing device, such as a horn or whistle, to signal other vessels and communicate in low visibility conditions. This simple tool can help avoid collisions or draw attention in emergencies.
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Reminder: Test your horn or whistle before launching to ensure it's loud and clear.
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11. Flashlight
In addition to running lights, a reliable flashlight can be a lifesaver when navigating in the dark or checking for any onboard issues. Opt for a waterproof flashlight with extra batteries onboard for added safety.
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Safety Tip: Keep the flashlight within easy reach and test it regularly.
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12. Current Registration and Documentation
Every boat must be properly registered and display its registration numbers. Ensure your boat’s registration is up to date and that you have all necessary documentation onboard, including your boat license and any required permits.
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Advice: Keep a waterproof pouch with your registration, insurance papers, and personal identification.
By ensuring you have all these essential items on board, you’re taking the necessary steps to keep your passengers safe, respect the local environment, and comply with boating laws. For more information on boating safety in Lake Havasu City, visit some of the resources listed below. Let’s work together to enjoy our waters responsibly!
Monsoon Weather Safety Tips
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Do not rush towards the boat ramp or docks
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Make sure all passengers have floatation devices on and are positioned as low as possible
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Proceed forward with bow facing the waves at a 45 degree angle at the same speed as waves or slightly faster
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Head towards a sheltered cove up wind at a slow speed if possible but stay on the craft in vagigable water away from hazards and other craft
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If you lose power anchor off the bow with 2 anchors, if possible to maintain 45 degree angle to oncoming waves
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Keep bilge area clear so pump can operate or someone can bail
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Stow Bimini top, if safely possible and secure as many items on deck as possible
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Again stay on board and in navigable water clear of obstructions
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Ride the storm out keeping you and your passengers safe
Thank you for reading!
Courtesy of Lake Havasu Marine Association Volunteer / Scott Brown
Advisory Council of Marine Associations (ACMA)
The Advisory Council of Marine Associations (ACMA) is a formal coalition of national and state marine trade associations, led by the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA), who meet annually to discuss policy and set resolutions. ACMA provides legislative and regulatory priority direction to the MRAA while also serving as a forum to discuss policy and legislation impacting marine businesses across the country. Furthermore, the MRAA hosts a bi-weekly call for ACMA members to discuss updates on legislative and policy priorities and other pressing industry news.
Lower Colorado River Safe Waterways Committee (LCRSWC-USCG)
CONTENT COMING SOON!
UPV Examinations - USCG
The Coast Guard Auxiliary provides a complementary safety examination for Uninspected Passenger Vessels. Similar to a recreational Vessel Safety Check but more in depth with documentation, safety equipment and educating the owner/master with compliance with UPV regulations. Vessels that pass the examination will receive a UPV decal for display on the vessel. Vessels that fail will be given a deficiencies list and no enforcement action is taken.
Kids on the Colorado River (KOCR)
Colorado River Law Enforcement Association
An association of local, state and federal boating law enforcement officials and their civilian contemporaries from states bordering the Colorado River, including Utah, Arizona, Nevada, and California, who work to reduce boating fatalities, injuries, and property damage accidents, and to improve boating safety, through fostering interstate cooperation, uniform voting laws, and educating the public.
Lower Colorado River Safe Waterways Committee
San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department
The mission of the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department is to provide collaborative law enforcement solutions which meet the needs of our communities and partners by delivering quality professional services to America's largest county.
Mohave Couty Sheriff's Offfice
Mission - To enhance public safety and ensure a quality of life, safety, and welfare for the citizens of Mohave County. To wisely use the resources which have been entrusted to us. To maintain public trust through open, honest, and ethical behavior; exercising integrity in the use of power and authority. To perform all duties with the highest level of personal and professional principles. To create positive relationships with the public by treating all with fairness, dignity, and compassion.
United States Coast Guard
Since 1790, the Coast Guard has safeguarded the American people and promoted national security, border security, and economic prosperity in a complex and evolving maritime environment. The Coast Guard saves those in peril and protects the Nation from all maritime threats.